More than 300 Malawians affected by xenophobic attacks in Gansbaai, Western Cape, South Africa, are seeking assistance to return home safely.
The affected individuals are appealing to the Government of Malawi, the Malawi Embassy, humanitarian organisations and well-wishers for transportation and emergency support.
Speaking to MIJ Online, one of the victims, Richard Maganga, said many foreign nationals, including Malawians, have been assaulted and threatened during the attacks.
Maganga alleged that groups of people have been entering houses at night, forcing residents to flee for their safety.
As a result, many victims have lost their property, personal belongings and sources of livelihood.
According to Maganga, many Malawians are currently being accommodated in a municipal hall, although the situation remains difficult and uncertain.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation says it is aware of and has been closely monitoring reports of vigilante demonstrations and attacks targeting African migrants in some parts of South Africa.
The ministry said that through the Malawian High Commission in Pretoria and the Consulate General in Johannesburg, it has been engaging leaders of Malawian diaspora groups to assess the
situation and provide support to those affected.
The ministry further announced that the Government will soon begin a voluntary repatriation exercise for Malawian nationals who have requested assistance to return home.